Podcasts about Church Growth

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Fast. Funny. Thoughtful. Kris and Ken fire off hot takes on the myths, clichés, and trends shaping modern church life — from coffee-based growth strategies to viral-video revival. They laugh their way toward a deeper truth: methods fade, but the mission of Jesus still multiplies.

"This study of the Loughwood Baptist church has brought to our attention a number of interesting early members. But the Hugenots, Fifth Monarchy men, and woman author weren't the entire congregation. There were in fact several hundred believers making up the church even in its earliest years."   For more information, visit CBTSeminary.org

What happens when all the church growth principles that were working in your church, suddenly stop working when you need them the most?Karl Vaters interviews Paul Dazet about what happened to him, as the pastor of a fast-growing church shortly after he was diagnosed with cancer. Over 100 members left, saying things like “I just can't handle being sad at church,” and “It used to be so energetic. Your illness changed the whole vibe.” Paul's illness and the shaved head that went with it were seen as a show of weakness, need, and vulnerability that many people were uncomfortable seeing on a church platform.But it's not all bad news. Paul also walks us through the positive changes he has made in his approach to pastoring, including allowing space for lament, and how he now defines ministry success.Links:Paul's article on SubstackFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/pastorpauldazet/Instagram - @pauldazetTwitter / X - @pauldazetBluesky - @pastorpaul.bsky.social‬LibbyHoopla Bonus video The Five False Jesus' of the “Successful” Church, with Paul DazetPaul Dazet found out that a numerically-growing church isn't necessarily a healthy church. In this Bonus content, Karl Vaters talks with Paul about the 5 ways churches can be tempted to see Jesus that are not what Jesus intended for his church. They are:“Jesus wants you rich” (Prosperity Jesus)“Jesus votes red, white, and blue” (Nationalistic Jesus)“Jesus is disappointed in you” (Judgmental Jesus)“Jesus only loves people who look and believe like us” (Exclusive Jesus)“Jesus is here to meet your every need” (Consumeristic Jesus) Links:Paul's article on SubstackFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/pastorpauldazet/Instagram - @pauldazetTwitter / X - @pauldazetBluesky - @pastorpaul.bsky.social‬To get Bonus Content every week, click here to become a Financial Partner, or here to subscribe to the

"This study of the Loughwood Baptist church has brought to our attention a number of interesting early members. But the Hugenots, Fifth Monarchy men, and woman author weren't the entire congregation. There were in fact several hundred believers making up the church even in its earliest years." For more information, visit CBTSeminary.org

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle sits down with Jay Pathak, National Director of Vineyard USA and co-author of The Art of Neighboring. Jay shares his unexpected journey into church planting, from studying philosophy at Ohio State to planting Mile High Vineyard in Denver after 9/11. Key themes include: The power of a clear calling—and why clarity often means higher cost. The challenges of starting with little money, odd jobs, and slow growth. Why multiplying leaders is the foundation for multiplying churches. Lessons from The E-Myth on building for replication. Evangelism as the heartbeat of church planting, no matter the model or denomination. Jay encourages listeners to pray for God's heart for the marginalized and to stay focused on the essentials: leading people to Christ, making disciples, and training leaders. Podcast Contents 00:00–02:00 | Intro: Greg welcomes Jay Pathak, National Director of Vineyard USA 02:00–05:30 | Jay's Ohio State background & early call to ministry 05:30–09:00 | Planting Mile High Vineyard after 9/11: obstacles & slow growth 09:00–12:00 | The importance of a clear call—and its high cost 12:00–15:30 | Lessons from Carol Wimber: “Because it's going to be hard” 15:30–18:30 | Multiplication begins with multiplying leaders 18:30–21:30 | Insights from The E-Myth for church planting systems 21:30–23:30 | Evangelism as the heart of church planting 23:30–25:30 | Why unity across denominations matters for mission 25:30–26:30 | Final encouragement: focus on people, discipleship, and reproducing leaders

In today's episode, Sean welcomes Danny Anderson, lead pastor and author of How to Grow Your Church Without Losing Your Soul. Danny shares the heart behind his new book, shaped by his own leadership journey and a desire to help pastors avoid burnout, moral failure, and misplaced identity. Together, Sean and Danny unpack the importance of soul care, Sabbath, healthy friendships, and leadership practices that sustain both personal integrity and church growth. This conversation is a candid and practical guide for leaders who want to build thriving churches while staying deeply rooted in Christ. Welcome to Episode 143 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

The Secret to a Healthy, Growing Church | His Word, His Plan, His People This episode looks at the early church's growing pains in Acts 6 and how they handled it with wisdom and unity. Learn how prioritizing prayer, Scripture, and shared responsibility can help any church—and any believer—stay focused on what really matters. Key Take Aways: 1. A growing church will always face challenges, but staying rooted in prayer and the Word keeps it healthy. 2. Disunity and distractions can quietly divide a church; unity requires intentional effort and clear communication. 3. Everyone has a role in the mission. Church isn't just for pastors or leaders; it's for all of us. 4. Serving others is not optional! It's essential to spiritual growth and church health. 5. God honors churches that stay mission-focused, disciple-making, and led by the Spirit. Key Scripture: Acts 6 (https://www.bible.com/bible/59/ACT.6.ESV) Speaker: Marty Godfrey Series: His Word, His Plan, His People Location: Burnt Hickory Baptist Church (https://maps.app.goo.gl/hazkR3omjk9xvxZc7) Connect with us: ° Watch this sermon on YouTube (https://youtu.be/_YmttBbd08o) ° Follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/bhbchome) ° Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/burnthickorybaptist/) ° Visit our website (https://www.burnthickory.com/)

Jesus once told His disciples who were unsuccessful at fishing in their excursion to cast their nets in a different place—and their nets became very full. And He told His believing disciples to go global in their endeavors of being “fishers of men.” How about that? So, is your church growing in numbers? And is your church helping other churches get planted and grow elsewhere around the world? Join Kevin as we talk about expanding the net and engaging God's related key measure. // Download this episode's Application & Action questions and PDF transcript at whitestone.org.

Send us a text. If you would like a response, please send us an email to bcoc@suddenlinkmail.com.Ed Stover

How does God accomplish His work? Gem Castor shares how Jesus' call to “learn of me” in Matthew 11:29 reveals His meek and lowly nature, exemplified by biblical underdogs and a California church's prayer-driven revival.

Christopher shares his deep concerns for Pastor Barbara Lynch, whom he has respected and learned from over the years. As he reflects on his time at Lighthouse, Inc. Church, he expresses his worries about her spiritual path and the potential loss of her salvation. Christopher urges Pastor Barbara to reconsider the voices she is following and the direction her ministry has taken. With a blend of love and urgency, he hopes to inspire her to return to her true calling and fulfill the vision of the Lighthouse Church to reach the community for Christ.    

Discover why merely singing songs is not enough and how true transformation comes from feeding on God's word. Join us as we reflect on the significance of belief, the impact of the spirit, and the call for deeper spiritual engagement in our lives. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that challenges us to examine our hearts and our worship! Source:  https://youtu.be/_DGDxbGy9BY?si=8cVTwPIRzPrspseh

In the inaugural episode of the new series "Life. Legacy. Eternity.," Pastor Karl delivers a heartfelt message addressing recent global turmoil, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk, and its impact on the church and individual believers. Reflecting on the cultural shifts and moral challenges facing society, Pastor Karl emphasizes the centrality of Christ as the only hope for humanity. He urges listeners to prioritize the Kingdom of God over anger, politics, or personalities, drawing from Psalm 116 and Isaiah 6 to underscore God's holiness and sovereignty. Pastor Karl also shares the church's vision for its next chapter, including plans to plant churches in Ukraine and expand local services to reach more people. Through a powerful testimony of transformation and a call to sacrificial commitment, this episode challenges listeners to live boldly for God's purpose, embracing a legacy of faith and impact for eternity.Watch all our sermons on our YouTube channel "Flipside Christian Church"Join us in person 9:00am & 10:30am every Sunday morning.37193 Ave 12 #3h, Madera, CA 93636For more visit us at flipside.churchFor more podcasts visit flipsidepodcasts.transistor.fm

Join us for an inspiring continuation of our 20th anniversary celebration with guest speaker JD Pearring. In this powerful message, JD delivers a powerful message at Flipside Christian Church that dives deep into the heart of faith and resilience. JD explores the transformative power of trusting in God's plan, drawing from biblical teachings and personal insights to encourage listeners to navigate life's challenges with hope and courage. With his engaging storytelling and practical wisdom, JD challenges us to deepen our relationship with God and live out our faith boldly. Tune in for an uplifting and thought-provoking sermon that will leave you encouraged and inspired!Watch all our sermons on our YouTube channel "Flipside Christian Church"Join us in person 9:00am & 10:30am every Sunday morning.37193 Ave 12 #3h, Madera, CA 93636For more visit us at flipside.churchFor more podcasts visit flipsidepodcasts.transistor.fm

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle sits down with Brian Hofmeister, founding pastor of Lakepoint Church in Muskego, Wisconsin. Brian shares the powerful story of how his church moved from a single church plant to becoming a multiplying, sending church. Key themes include: How a church of any size can invest in multiplication from the beginning Why Lakepoint committed 10% of its budget to future church plants—even in its early years Lessons learned from developing residents and sending planters during the COVID-19 pandemic A compelling vision for shared church family identity, including joint baptism services How to embed multiplication into your church's DNA and avoid burnout as a sending pastor Whether you're a new church planter, a pastor of an established congregation, or someone investing in church planting, Brian's practical wisdom will challenge and inspire you to think beyond your walls.

What if the true measure of ministry isn't size or success—but simple faithfulness to Jesus? In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Daniel Im—author, pastor, and disciple-maker—shares his powerful journey from disillusionment in ministry to a renewed vision for the local church. He opens up about his own season of pain and healing, challenges traditional church growth models, and invites us to embrace the call of making disciples who make disciples. This conversation is both deeply pastoral and profoundly practical for anyone passionate about the Great Commission. Main Points Faithfulness Over Greatness – Why doing things for a great God matters more than striving for great things. Healing from Disillusionment – Daniel's 14-year journey of pain, surrender, and renewed calling. Rethinking Church Growth – Moving beyond numbers and attractional models to Spirit-led ministry. A Framework for Discipleship – Four simple practices: gather, grow, give, and go together. The Lausanne Vision – How disciple-making churches can awaken cities and nations to King Jesus. Call to Action If this conversation encouraged you, take a moment to subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone passionate about discipleship and the global church. Links & Resources Daniel Im's website: danielim.com The Discipleship Opportunity by Daniel Im: https://www.amazon.com/Discipleship-Opportunity-Leading-Great-Commission-Post-Everything/dp/1641587490 No Silver Bullets by Daniel Im: https://www.amazon.com/No-Silver-Bullets-Transform-Ministry/dp/1433651548 Guest Bio Daniel Im is the Lead Pastor of Beulah Alliance Church in Edmonton, Alberta, a Bible teacher on 100 Huntley Street, and the author of several books including The Discipleship Opportunity: Leading a Great-Commission Church in a Post-Everything World, No Silver Bullets, Planting Missional Churches, and You Are What You Do. He has served in churches ranging from 100 to 50,000 people across Canada, Korea, and the U.S., and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation and Relational Neuroscience from Western Theological Seminary. Daniel has co-hosted podcasts with over 3 million downloads and now co-hosts the IMbetween Podcast with his wife, Christina, equipping couples to build marriages and families they love. Married since 2006, Daniel and Christina have three children and speak together at FamilyLife Canada's Weekend Getaway Marriage Conference.

By all means work. But always look to the Lord for the decisive, supernatural work needed to fulfill his purposes.

MELISSA https://youtu.be/2TLek_QPi1M?si=onJaVcZvx8-vCHMOContact :Address: 3006 North Lindbergh boulevard Saint Ann Missouri suite 711-63074sutton968@gmail.comWhatsApp & Text Messages: 1(314)629-0024Donation:Cash App: $witcfcVenmo: https://venmo.com/walkintruthMusic license:https://www.storyblocks.com/ callingContact :sutton968@gmail.comWhatsApp & Text Messages: 1(314)629-0024Donation:Cash App: $witcfcVenmo: https://venmo.com/walkintruthPayPal: sutton968@gmail.comPLATFORMS oF LISTENING:https://anchor.fm/walk-in-truth-ministriesCheck out Dr, James Sutton on #SoundCloudhttps://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/mKmhrhttps://www.facebook.com/witrnhttps://www.instagram.com/s/aGlnaGxpZ2h0OjE4MDgzMzE2MDE5MTA0OTk4?igshid=YmMyMTA2M

Struggling to keep up with youth ministry social media this fall? In this episode of the Hybrid Ministry Show, Nick Clason unveils the Fall Social Media Pack—a done-for-you, but also fully customizable content calendar built to align with your fall kickoff event, guest strategy, YouTube channel, and in-person ministry, saving you hours every week. Learn how to post your way to better engagement on Instagram, TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts, while bridging the gap between digital discipleship and real-life impact in your church!

Our guest is JASON MITCHELL, lead pastor of LCBC Church in Pennsylvania, one of the largest multi site churches in the state and across America. Jason is also the author of No Easy Jesus and big time Alabama Crimson Tide fan! We discuss influence, leadership transition, connecting with young adults, how to level up with new vision, the power of faithfulness, patience, and much more. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the list and all the show notes. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: REGENT BANK - connect with the team at https://www.regent.bank/.  Regent Bank is one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the country, uniquely positioned as a faith-based bank with a clear purpose: “To show God's love to employees, clients, and communities.” Regent Bank stands out with both a dedicated prayer team and a specialized department focused exclusively on serving faith-based organizations, where all nonprofit clients are offered completely free banking services, along with highly competitive interest rates and access to specialized support across multiple financial areas. Find out more at http://regent.bank. And SUBSPLASH – engage your congregation through Subsplash. Schedule your free demo at http://subsplash.com/brad. Subsplash is the platform made to help maximize your church's giving, growth, and engagement. The go to for mobile apps, messaging, and streaming, along with building websites, groups, giving and more, Subsplash puts today's most innovative church technology into your hands so you can focus completely on ministry. Visit http://subsplash.com/brad and join more than 20,000 churches and ministries who partner with Subsplash. Again, visit http://subsplash.com/brad to schedule a quick, no obligation demo.

Send us a textThis conversation delves into the biblical foundations for Disciple-Making Movements (DMMs) as outlined in Dr. Aila Tasse's book, 'Cabbages in the Desert.' The discussion explores the concept of multiplication in faith, tracing its roots from Genesis through the life of Jesus and the early church. Key themes include the importance of understanding the church as a living organism, the distinction between converts and disciples, the role of adversity in spreading the gospel, and the necessity of cultural relevance and simplicity in disciple-making. The conversation emphasizes the need for prayer and personal transformation in embracing these ideas.TakeawaysMultiplication in faith is rooted in biblical principles.The Tower of Babel illustrates humanity's failure to spread God's glory.Abraham's calling was meant to bless all nations.The early church grew through adversity and scattering.Discipleship is about heart transformation, not just conversion.Baptism is a fundamental step of obedience for new believers.Cultural relevance is crucial for effective disciple-making.Simplicity is essential for reproducibility in movements.Prayer is vital for guidance and strength in disciple-making.Personal transformation is necessary for leaders embracing new models.*This is an AI-generated podcast. 

The headlines about the church in America often focus on decline—but that's not the whole story. The numbers have steadied from the post-COVID freefall, and in many places, congregations are seeing attendance and engagement rebound. But here's the real question: Are we satisfied that the decline has slowed, or are we ready to measure how much we're actually gaining?In this episode, Ken and Kris unpack the latest national and denominational data on church attendance, evangelism, and spiritual openness. They explain why the problem isn't that “the church isn't working,” but that most churches are running on a single, attractional gear—while Jesus modeled a balanced missional ecosystem that includes corporate gatherings, mid-sized communities, micro-disciple-making ecosystems (XGroups), and everyday missionary living.You'll hear:The most recent national statistics on attendance, growth, and evangelismWhy spiritual openness is rising even as personal evangelism conviction has dropped.How small group and micro-ecosystem engagement can turn stability into multiplication.Practical steps for reorienting your church to the Jesus paradigm of mission.This conversation will challenge your metrics, encourage your heart, and help you imagine what's possible when the church moves beyond measuring “less loss” to pursuing missional success.

Send us a textToday is my birthday, and I am traveling, so we have an encore episode!  Enjoy Where We Miss The Boat in Church, 2025's highest-rated episode!

How do you grow predictable revenue for your non-profit initiative?  In this value-packed episode of Leaders of Transformation, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Jonathan Beck, founder of WeGive—a powerful SaaS platform transforming how nonprofits and faith-based organizations engage donors and fuel their missions. After co-founding PayStand, a global leader in digital payments, and building a successful career in Silicon Valley, Jonathan felt a strong pull to return to his roots and serve the nonprofit world. With WeGive, he's merging innovative technology with purpose, helping mission-driven leaders build stronger supporter relationships and generate sustainable, predictable revenue. Jonathan shares how donor engagement is evolving from basic transactions (“Giving 1.0”) to immersive, personalized experiences through what he calls a Giving Experience Platform. Today's donors expect more than forms and receipts—they want meaningful stories, deeper connection, and seamless digital interactions. Nicole and Jonathan discuss how nonprofits and churches can elevate engagement, integrate modern tech like Salesforce and Planning Center, and use AI to reduce administrative burden. They also dive into the real-world challenges leaders face when navigating digital transformation—and how to overcome them with clarity and confidence. Whether you're an executive director, outreach pastor, fundraising professional, or mission-driven entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you with fresh ideas and actionable strategies to amplify your impact. What We Discuss in This Episode How is “Giving 3.0” different from traditional fundraising methods? What is a “Giving Experience Platform” and how does it work? Why are personalized donor journeys critical for today's nonprofit growth? What practical steps help nonprofits increase donor retention and conversion? How does WeGive integrate with tools like Planning Center, Salesforce, and more? Which donor engagement strategies work best for Gen X and Millennial supporters? What are the biggest barriers to technology adoption in the nonprofit sector—and how can leaders overcome them? How does AI streamline repetitive nonprofit tasks and elevate donor relationships? Who are WeGive's ideal clients—and how do they measure success? What pricing models make advanced fundraising tech accessible for growing organizations? Podcast Highlights 0:00 - Evolution of Giving Platforms 6:09 - Donor Journey: From Online to Mailbox 7:54 - Effortless Fundraising Boosts Connections 12:25 - Church Software Usability Challenges 13:42 - Enhanced Church Giving Tools 17:27 - WeGive: Seamless Donation Experience 21:47 - Nonprofits Lack Innovation Culture 25:37 - Essentials for Any Church 29:21 - Flexible CRM and Payment Solutions 30:09 - Affordable Platform Fees for Nonprofits 34:27 - AI-Driven CRM Insights 36:47 - Entrepreneurial Insights and Innovation Favorite Quotes “Today's donors are purchasing a piece of their identity, and the product is delivered via communication. It's not just a transaction—it's a relationship.” ~ Jonathan Beck “Most nonprofit tools are stand-alone point solutions. What we need is an integrated giving commerce flow that merges online and offline experiences.” ~ Jonathan Beck “AI and integrated platforms are finally letting small teams create the personal, high-touch donor journeys that used to be reserved for huge organizations.” ~ Jonathan Beck Be sure to check out WeGive.com for more info, a demo, or to explore partnership opportunities. Looking to take your nonprofit or church fundraising to the next level? This episode is your roadmap. Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/541-the-future-of-giving-adapting-for-the-next-generation-with-jonathan-beck/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________

What if the biggest thing holding your parish back isn't a lack of programs—but a lack of missionary disciples? In this episode, I sit down with my team to explore a step in parish life that often gets skipped: evangelization formation. We're talking about the part of discipleship where people go from passive participants to confident, Spirit-led missionaries—and why that shift changes everything. We get honest about what it actually takes to form missionary disciples—not just run more programs. You'll hear real behind-the-scenes stories from parishes on the ground, practical tips that work, and ways they faced the most common roadblocks we see, like fear, self-doubt, or the sense of being alone in mission. We break down evangelization formation into clear, doable steps—like helping people pray out loud, share their story, and discover their charisms. Whether your parish is just starting out or ready to go deeper, this episode will shift how you think about forming people for mission—and give you the tools to start. [00:13] Series Overview: Choosing Evangelization Formation Ministry [01:15] Understanding Evangelization Formation [02:17] Characteristics of Evangelization Formation [13:39] The Role of Charisms in Evangelization [17:40] Team Approach and Mentorship in Evangelization [24:20] Programs and Ministries for Evangelization Formation [32:55] Discipleship and Mission [34:24] Practical Steps for Evangelization [35:58] Discernment in Evangelization Formation [39:22] Deep Investment in Leaders [41:34] Practical Ways to Discern Evangelization Formation [45:14] Stories of Evangelization Success Don't forget to check out Options for Evangelization Formation (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Options-for-Evangelization-Formation.pdf). And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship (https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Path-Missionary-Disciples-Parish/dp/B0CHL7DB58): How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Send us a textIn this episode of the Frontiers in Faith podcast, Monsignor Roger Landry interviews Bishop Shorot Francis Gomes of the Silat Diocese in Bangladesh. Bishop Gomez shares his journey from a traditional family to becoming a bishop, detailing the challenges and triumphs of his missionary work in a predominantly Muslim region. He discusses the importance of education, the establishment of primary schools, and the need for support for seminarians and children with special needs. The conversation highlights the growth of the Catholic community in Silat and the recent completion of a new cathedral, symbolizing hope and faith for the local population. Bishop Gomez calls for support from American Catholics to help sustain and expand the church's mission in Bangladesh.

Every church wants to see more people come to know Jesus Christ. We long for fuller pews, deeper connections, and stronger impact in our communities. But here's the truth: Some ... Read More

This is a special bonus episode. I had the privilege to speak at our annual UPCA Leaders Retreat in Brisbane, QLD on the topic of church growth, which is a passion of mine.I hope this session is a blessing to you and if you have any questions, please reach out in the comments.Here are my slides from the session - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/a5ewyvs6v2neq7mynxjq0/AKV3gA2LdDsJSm8ggDMYxto?rlkey=cbvsd7kug2pgn4ugmeqgdbkey&st=ys6kmjl8&dl=0

In this powerful conversation, Greg Nettle sits down with author and pastor John Ortberg to discuss his newest book, Steps: A Guide to Transforming Your Life When Willpower Isn't Enough. Drawing inspiration from the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, Ortberg reveals why this recovery-based model may actually be the most effective path to real spiritual transformation—for everyone, not just those with addiction. The conversation covers: How AA emerged from discipleship roots in the Oxford Group Why most churches struggle with a “wimpy Step One” How to foster communities of grace-filled vulnerability The critical role of desperation, community, and daily practices in spiritual growth How churches can implement the Steps curriculum and even start B12 groups (Bible + 12 Steps) John also shares about his free daily vodcast ministry, Become New, and upcoming resources for small groups and churches based on Steps, launching Fall 2025. Whether you're planting a church or trying to revitalize one, this episode offers practical wisdom and a compelling vision for deep, lasting discipleship. We hope you enjoy this podcast. For more info about Stadia Church Planting and how you can get involved, check out stadia.org. To connect with Greg Nettle, you can find him at GregNettle.com Episode Index 01:10 - John's new book *Steps* and its origin in the 12 Steps   03:00 - Why *Steps* is for everyone, not just addiction recovery   04:20 - The spiritual roots of AA and the Oxford Group   06:00 - The power of weakness and the gift of desperation   08:00 - Greg shares a baby dedication story and his own approval addiction   10:20 - Why churches struggle with a “wimpy Step One”   12:00 - Biblical examples of desperation and robust transformation   13:20 - How desperation leads to discipleship intensity   14:00 - Discipleship as both program and fellowship   16:00 - Why church needs to be more like an AA meeting   17:30 - The power of confession and shared inadequacy   19:00 - Appropriate vulnerability for pastors and leaders   21:00 - How to help your church take real steps toward transformation   22:20 - Real-life church examples like the “B12 class”   24:00 - Free video curriculum for *Steps* coming Fall 2025   25:15 - Final thoughts: encouragement for church planters  

301 – What is the secret to church growth?How is your church doing these days? Are you growing? Are you holding steady? Are you barely hanging in there trying to keep the doors open? A lot of churches are struggling right now. Some are closing. Some are growing.What is it that makes a church not just survive but thrive? There are lots of factors, but what really helps a church grow, and I'm not just talking number of members, but more importantly, spiritual growth, the desire to follow Christ, spiritual vision and transformation, and love for the community.In this week's episode, we're going to talk about how and why the Early Church, described in the Book of Acts, grew so quickly and how it can be a model for your church to grow today.Be full of the Holy SpiritBe in the presence of the spirit of Jesus's resurrectionUnderstand how Jesus fulfills the ScripturesLove Jesus enough to obey his command to share his message with your neighborsLove your neighbors enough to actually share your faith with themLook for the opportunities to share that are always thereSpeak in a way others can understand you.When you and your church do these things, I can't guarantee you'll get a bunch of new members, but I can promise you there will a lot of spiritual growth in your church, and there are no limitations to what God can do when your hearts are on fire for Christ.Show notes: For a full transcript and all Bible quotes, go to thebiblespeakstoyou.com/301Text me your questions or comments.Support the showIf you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify__________________James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life. Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person) Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus) Make a donation to support the show Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you Contact James here

Psychiatrist, author and speaker Dr. Curt Thompson explores why true discipleship isn't scalable—and why that's the point. Drawing from neuroscience, church history, and the life of Jesus, he challenges the obsession with mass growth and spotlights the transformative power of small, intentional communities.Listen to the full episode here:SpotifyApple----------------------Do you ever struggle with how to share your faith with those who won't walk into a church?Ben has completely revised and updated his powerful book, Jesus in the Secular World: Reaching a Culture in Crisis—a must-read guide for anyone longing to reach those who may never step foot in a church. Packed with real-world insights and practical strategies, this book could be the breakthrough you've been searching for.Don't wait—get your copy today!Click HERE to check it out on Amazon.For more information go to: jesusinthesecularworld.com------------------------Questions, comments, or feedback? We'd love to hear what you think! Send them to provokeandinspire@steiger.org, or send us a message on Instagram.Click HERE to receive news, thought-provoking articles, and stories directly in your inbox from Ben, David, Luke, and Chad!Click below to follow the regulars on Instagram!Ben PierceDavid PierceChad JohnsonLuke GreenwoodSend us a text

Send us a textMeet Melissa Dougherty. Join us as she discusses her journey from New Thought beliefs to a deeper understanding of Biblical Christianity. She explores the differences between New Thought and New Age, the identity of Jesus, and the implications of these beliefs on modern Christianity. The discussion highlights the importance of critical thinking, the dangers of autonomy in spirituality, and the need for a solid understanding of the Gospel. In this conversation, Melissa Dougherty and R. L. Solberg explore the complexities of spirituality, the dangers of false teachings, and the importance of critical thinking in faith. They discuss the impact of seeker-sensitive churches on modern Christianity, the role of emotions in spiritual experiences, and the need for discernment in understanding true theology. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of grounding one's faith in scripture and the challenges posed by contemporary spiritual movements.Defending the Biblical Roots of ChristianityOur websiteOur YouTube ChannelProf. Solberg's BlogSupport our Ministry (Thank you!)#newthought #newage #spirituality #christianity #apologetics #interview Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation03:03 Melissa Dougherty's Background and Journey05:50 Understanding New Thought vs. New Age08:49 The Influence of New Thought on Modern Beliefs12:04 Distinguishing New Thought from Biblical Christianity14:46 The Identity of Jesus and the Gospel17:56 The Role of Pain and Distrust in Belief Systems21:02 The Importance of Healing and Insight28:34 Understanding Healing Through Biblical Perspectives29:31 The Rise of New Thought and Its Impact30:45 Historical Context of New Thought Movement32:08 The Self-Help Movement's Roots in New Thought33:37 The Dangers of New Thought Theology36:18 Moral Accountability and Autonomy in Modern Beliefs37:43 Worldviews and Their Influence on Faith38:59 The Pragmatism of New Thought and Its Consequences40:59 The It Works Trap in Spiritual Practices43:38 Manifestation and Its Spiritual Implications46:16 The Dangers of False Signs and Wonders48:08 Evaluating Spiritual Experiences and Their Sources51:31 Self-Evaluation Against Biblical Standards52:20 The Importance of Logic and Critical Thinking in Faith56:12 Balancing Heart and Mind in Spirituality57:50 The Intellectual Component of Faith01:01:34 Emotions vs. Truth in Church Culture01:04:32 The Seeker Sensitive Model and Its Impact01:12:28 The Dilemma of Church Growth and Theology01:19:08 The Future of Church and Spiritual Hunger

In this powerful episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle is joined by long-time friend and influential church leader Dave Ferguson. Dave is the founding pastor of Community Christian Church, president of Exponential, and co-founder of the global church planting network NewThing—now integrated into Exponential. The conversation covers: Dave's personal and organizational transitions, including appointing a new lead pastor at Community A deep dive into his 5-step leadership apprenticeship model (from his book Hero Maker) His global perspective on a potential revival among Gen Z, especially in the UK The explosive growth of microchurches His upcoming book Multiplier (coming March 2026) Challenges the Church must face to reach the next generation, including creating safe, peace-filled spaces for those deconstructing or new to faith A must-listen for anyone passionate about multiplication, innovation, and the future of the Church. 01:15 – Dave's leadership transition at Community Christian   04:05 – Merging NewThing into Exponential   06:40 – Dave's new role as CEO of Exponential   08:00 – Life Planning: What it is and who should do it   12:00 – 5-Step Apprenticeship Model explained   15:20 – Preview of Dave's new book: *Multiplier*   16:15 – The “Quiet Revival” among Gen Z in the UK   19:45 – US stats: A spiritual shift is happening   21:18 – Church hurt & challenges for church multiplication   23:00 – Peace as the new apologetic   24:30 – Global microchurch movement—how it started   27:00 – Story: 177+ microchurches through online training   29:00 – Why now is the time to empower global leaders   29:50 – Final encouragement & close

Send us a textThis conversation explores the transformative journey of a church as it navigates a crisis that forces it to rethink its mission and methods. Drawing insights from the book 'Spent Matches', the discussion highlights the shift from an attractional model to a hybrid approach that emphasizes disciple-making and community engagement. The speakers delve into the importance of culture, training, and the need to challenge ingrained assumptions to foster growth and adaptability.TakeawaysThe church faced a crisis that revealed the limitations of its current model.A paradigm shift is necessary when old methods fail.The hybrid model combines traditional and innovative approaches to church growth.Success is redefined as disciples making disciples, not just attendance.Learning from unexpected sources can provide valuable insights for growth.Building a supportive culture is crucial for sustaining movement.Training and retraining are essential for effective disciple-making.Language matters; small changes can remove barriers to engagement.Understanding the Dunning-Kruger effect is vital for humility in learning.Challenging assumptions can lead to breakthroughs in personal and organizational growth.Resources: Resource GuideListen in one of 20 different languages - !Coming Soon!*This is an AI generated podcast

The Areopagites tackle the recent revival, return, reaction, resurgence – whatever you want to call it – that is bringing more people into churches all over the world.

What does it look like to multiply disciples and churches across cultures, languages, and borders? In this episode, Jesse Cruickshank sits down with Obe and Jacqueline Arellano, leaders of Exponential Español, to explore the vibrant and growing movement of the Spanish-speaking church—both in the United States and throughout Latin America.From their base in Mexico City, the Arellanos are equipping churches to move from decline and plateau into reproduction and multiplication. They share what's translating well across contexts, how principle-based discipleship is catalyzing change, and why the Hispanic church may be the key to revitalizing Christianity in North America.We also dive into the complex realities of immigration, spiritual warfare, and the prophetic opportunity for the Latin American church to become a refuge and a launching pad for mission. Whether you're in a traditional church or pioneering new expressions of faith, this conversation is an invitation to participate in something bigger than yourself.Find Exponential Español here: https://multiplicacion.org/Insta: Obe – @obearellano, Jacqueline – @jaqueline.r.arellanoExponential Español – @exponentialespanolFacebook:Obe – @obearellano, Exponential Español – @exponentialespanolJacqueline @cafeconjackORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church. ORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Frontiers in Faith podcast, Monsignor Roger Landry speaks with Father Solomon Zaku, the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Nigeria. They discuss the state of the Catholic Church in Nigeria, the challenges posed by Boko Haram, and the resilience of the faith among Nigerian Catholics despite severe persecution. Father Solomon shares insights into the mission work being done within Nigeria and how the global church supports these efforts. He also highlights the vibrant spirituality and increasing vocations in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of solidarity within the universal church.Click here to learn more about supporting the Pontifical Missions Societies:https://pontificalmissions.orgFollow us on socials!https://x.com/tpms_usahttps://www.instagram.com/tpms_us/

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton hosts Jeff Duerler and Andy Dalton from LifeSpring Community Church in Cincinnati. They share their unique journey from traditional church settings to pioneering microchurch movements. Jeff discusses his long pastoral journey, the transition from multi-site to autonomous churches, and the divine guidance that led them to explore church planting. Andy shares his personal story of obedience and the call to church planting, emphasizing the importance of family considerations and the influence of disciple-making movements. Together, they reflect on the challenges and joys of following God's leading in their ministry. 

Jesus is building His church—but what do we do when there's no more room? We take our cues from four desperate friends: we tear the roof off. This week is a call to radical faith and sacrificial mission, to do whatever it takes to get people to Jesus.

Carey answers your questions about whether there are limits to church growth, what to do if your elders try to micromanage you, and how to know who to fire and how to do it.

Patria Lead Pastor Adam Mesa shares how viral podcasting helped grow his church from 1,100 to 7,500+ in five years, his experience as a millennial taking over leadership from his dad, and navigating the strengths and challenges of ADHD.